Minister Nzimande hosts pre-SONA learner science outreach at NRF-SAAO

As part of the build-up to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address yesterday, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Blade Nzimande, hosted close to a hundred learners and educators from Fezeka High in Gugulethu and Siyabulela Primary in Langa, at the South African Astronomical Observatory (NRF-SAAO), a facility of the National Research Foundation in Cape Town.

This initiative forms part of Minister Nzimande’s ongoing National Science Outreach Programme, which also supports the Department of Basic Education’s mission to improve the quality of mathematics and science teaching in schools.

The Minister was supported by the NRF Board Chairperson, Prof Ari Sitas; DSTI Director General, Dr Mlungisi Cele; Deputy Director General: Research Development and Support, Imraan Patel; and Astronomy Chief Director, Takalani Nemaungani, among other senior DSTI officials.

Attendees from the NRF included board members, Prof Pamela Maseko and Mr Mavuso Shabalala, as well as senior executives Mr Bishen Singh, NRF CFO; Ms Pontsho Maruping, Managing Director of the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRF-SARAO); and the event host, Prof Rosalind Skelton, Managing Director of NRF-SAAO.

In his opening remarks, Prof Sitas said, “The NRF is committed to enabling a transformed, inclusive, knowledge-driven society through science engagement. Science outreach is not peripheral; it’s a strategic pillar in building national capability and public trust in science.”

In his key message, Minister Nzimande reminded the learners, “All the wonderful work that is being done at this, and other public science facilities is, in part, aimed at creating opportunities for you to realise your dreams. Through this programme, the DSTI aims to support the Department of Basic Education in its mission to improve learner performance, reduce dropout rates, strengthen teaching and learning, particularly in maths and science education.”

Minister Nzimande added, “Be respectful towards your parents, educators, fellow learners, your communities and most importantly, we expect you to respect yourselves.”

Weighing in on the importance of such initiatives, NRF Deputy CEO for National Infrastructure Platforms, and Acting CEO, Dr Angus Paterson, said, “The NRF carries a dual mandate of being a leading research organisation and a national leader in science engagement and education. Today’s programme affirms that science engagement is core to our national strategy, not an add-on. It is how we build a future-ready, scientifically literate South Africa. Creating environments where learners see themselves in science is key to transformation.”

Learners also received an inspiring motivational talk from Dr Kelebogile Gasealahwe, a beneficiary of the NRF Postgraduate Scholarship, who shared her remarkable personal journey from a young girl in Kimberley to a recently qualified PhD Astronomer. She spoke candidly about the challenges of transitioning from high school to university, describing the process of learning, getting a degree and building a career, especially in science, as often “non-linear” but deeply rewarding. Emphasising the power of dreams, hope, hard work and passion, Dr Gasealahwe concluded by urging learners to dream beyond their circumstances. “Build a solid foundation and network of people to guide and support you. Let your heart sing with hope and allow your passion to lead you to fulfilment.”

As part of the day’s activities the learners undertook a tour of the NRF-SAAO visitor’s centre, the McClean Telescope and Dome. They were also exposed to exhibitions by various science entities that were designed to encourage learners to pursue STEM fields. The Minister also donated maths and science tool kits to both schools to help improve the teaching of maths and science.